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The Ultimate Miami Dining & Nightlife Guide

The Ultimate Miami Dining & Nightlife Guide

Miami’s restaurant and bar scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself — blending world-class chefs, Michelin-starred establishments, casual Cuban joints, and rooftop cocktail lounges with views that rival any global hotspot. Whether you’re craving freshly caught seafood on Biscayne Bay, handmade pasta in South Beach, or a buzzy late-night bar in Wynwood, Miami has it all.
 
Here’s your ultimate guide to some of Miami’s best restaurants and bars, organized by neighborhood.
 

Downtown Miami

Klaw – Seafood

With sweeping views overlooking Biscayne Bay, Klaw is one of the hottest seafood spots in the city. Don’t miss their Happy Hour, Mon–Fri from 5–7 PM.
 

Mignonette – Seafood & Steaks

A downtown favorite, Mignonette is renowned for its exceptional seafood and steakhouse classics. Open daily from 5 PM.
 

Brickell / City Center

Casa Tua Cucina – Italian

With an Eataly NYC vibe, this bustling market-style eatery offers casual Italian fare for the whole family, open from 9 AM–11 PM daily.
 

Quinto – Upscale Uruguayan Steakhouse

Located inside EAST Miami, Quinto delivers an elevated Uruguayan steakhouse experience, open all day.
 

South Beach

Casa Tua – Upscale Italian

One of the hardest reservations in town during high season — Casa Tua is fine Italian dining at its best.
 

Carbone – Italian

The NYC icon’s Miami outpost. Expect incredible food, a glamorous vibe, and a nearly impossible reservation list.
 

Joe’s Stone Crab – Seafood

A true Miami institution. Iconic, legendary, and an absolute must-do for visitors and locals alike.
 

Smith & Wollensky – Steakhouse

A classic steakhouse with unbeatable views of the water — perfect for watching the ships roll out to sea.
 

Macchialina – Italian

Fresh pasta made daily, warm ambiance, and one of South Beach’s best neighborhood gems.
 

Azabu – Japanese

Michelin-rated Japanese dining with nightly Happy Hour from 6–8 PM.
 

Mila – Japanese Fusion

A trendy rooftop spot with Asian-fusion cuisine and a can’t-miss Sunday brunch.
 

Monty’s – American / Seafood

A laid-back marina hangout with live music and one of the best Happy Hours on the beach (M–F, 5–8 PM).
 

The Drexel – Mediterranean

Located on Española Way, this chic spot brings a modern Mediterranean twist.
 

Medium Cool – Jazz Bar

A vibey jazz bar with live performances nightly.
 

Bella Cuba – Cuban

Casual, authentic Cuban flavors in the heart of South Beach.
 

El Salón – Cocktail Bar

A tucked-away speakeasy-style bar inside the Esmé Hotel.
 

Mimi Chinese – Chinese

NYC import serving bold, upscale Chinese cuisine.
 

Gaythering – LGBTQ+ Bar

A lively South Beach institution, with Happy Hour daily from 5–8 PM.
 

Brother’s Keeper – Bar

A cozy, stylish bar with expertly crafted cocktails.
 

Design District

Swan – Contemporary

A celebrity favorite, this stylish spot blends great food with an A-list social scene.
 

Michael’s Genuine – American

One of the Design District’s most beloved institutions. Known for its Happy Hour (M–F, 4–7 PM) and standout dishes like roast chicken.
 

Contessa – Italian

High-style Italian dining with major NYC roots.
 

Wynwood

Mandolin – Mediterranean

A charming garden restaurant with incredible food — one of the toughest reservations in Wynwood.
 

Pastis – French

The Miami sister to NYC’s iconic Pastis, famous for brunch and bistro vibes.
 

Doya – Mediterranean

Michelin-rated, modern Aegean cuisine with a lively, stylish setting.
 

Edgewater & Beyond

Amara at Paraiso – Latin Coastal

Latin-inspired coastal cuisine with stunning Biscayne Bay views.
 

Rusty Pelican – Seafood

Key Biscayne’s iconic brunch and dinner spot — loved for its waterfront dining and city skyline views.
 

Café La Trova – Cuban

Located in Little Havana, this lively restaurant is famous for its authentic Cuban flavors and live music nightly.
 

Surf Club Restaurant – Continental

A Thomas Keller masterpiece with Michelin-starred elegance.
 

Stiltsville Fish Bar – Seafood

A Sunset Harbour staple offering fresh, casual seafood.
 

Lucali – Italian / Pizza

Brooklyn’s legendary pizza spot now has a Miami home.
 

Lido Bayside Grill – American

A relaxed bayside grill with beautiful views on Belle Isle.
 

Monterrey Bar – Speakeasy

A hidden cocktail haven on Belle Isle.
 

Call Me Gaby – Mediterranean

One of Miami’s go-to Mediterranean escapes in South of Fifth.
 

Final Thoughts

Miami’s dining scene offers something for everyone — from world-renowned chefs and chic celebrity hangouts to authentic Cuban experiences and hidden cocktail gems. Whether you’re a local looking for your new favorite spot or a visitor seeking the best the city has to offer, these restaurants and bars represent the very best of Miami’s flavor and nightlife.
 

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